I've never met anyone who was sitting around with a bunch of extra time on their hands when they found out they had cancer.

Getting second opinions, researching treatment options, going for treatment and testing, dealing with treatment side-effects -- all these things take time. Cancer disrupts whatever rhythm we had between "getting things done" and taking time for delight.

Yet now more than ever, there's a need for time to stay in touch with the things that refresh us and give us joy.

Traditionally in the West, this time for delight has gone by the name of Sabbath. It involves ceasing from labor and feasting on being and loving, appreciation and delight.

For example, Stage 4 cancer survivor Agi Lidle, one of my radio co- hosts, used her "good days" after her diagnosis to go hiking. Another woman with advanced cancer loved to visit her local casino with her husband during "good" periods.

But even 5 minutes of Sabbath time can brighten a day. You might spend the time praying, meditating, reading, cuddling a pet, listening to music, phoning a friend, journaling, drawing, sitting in a chapel or beautiful outdoor space, or savoring a cup of fragrant tea.

Taking time for joy is a powerful spiritual tool during cancer. If it isn't part of your "spiritual toolbox" yet, why not give it a try today?

TIP: When our schedule is very tight or our physical condition limits our activities, it's fine to start small. Any time we can give to activities that feed our joy will be valuable.

(c) Norma Schmidt, LLC (limited liability corporation)

Norma Schmidt, M.A., M.Div., gives workshops on living with cancer. Her writing has appeared in "Coping with Cancer" magazine, and she is a former co-host of the "Inspired Survivor" Internet radio show. Norma is a former Lutheran minister with experience as a pastor and cancer center chaplain. Read more of her articles and get her free 6-week e- course, "Tapping the Power Within: Spiritual Tools for Living with Cancer," at http://www.MyCancerSupportCoach.com